Factors that influence chairlift restraint bar use in the United States

To observe chairlift restraint bar use at ski areas across the United States (US) to investigate the factors that influence restraint bar use, including: geographic region, passenger demographics, equipment type, and design features of the restraint bar.

Frequency of restraint bar use was observed on 24 chairlifts at 8 ski areas in 4 geographic regions of the US. For each chair, passengers were observed to determine whether the restraint bar was lowered soon after loading; the number of passengers, children, and equipment type were also recorded. A statistical analysis was performed to determine the factors that may influence restraint bar use.

6,343 chairs with 16,286 passengers were observed. The overall frequency of restraint bar use was 41.6%; however, use varied significantly by geographic region, with the lowest use rates in the Midwest (9%) and highest use rates in the Northeast (80%). Other factors found to significantly increase use included a mix of children and adults on the chair (compared to only adults), chairs with only skiers (no snowboarders), and fixed-grip chairs (versus detachable). Restraint bar features such as footrests and handholds were not a driving factor in use.

Large differences in restraint bar use were observed across geographic regions in the US that mimic historical snowsports helmet use, suggesting an effect of safety culture on restraint bar use. Geographic region and the presence of both a child and an adult together on the chair were stronger predictors of restraint bar use than design features of the restraint bar.